By MARY JAGGLI
Special to the Leader
In contrast to the past abuse she endured, Valentine the pit bull was showered with love at the second annual “Valentine’s Day in June” outreach June 1 at Pioneer Park in Lucerne Valley.
A happy ending for abused and neglected animals is the goal of event coordinator Regene Fonville, co-founder of the Sounds of Silent Spirits Rescue and Sanctuary.
“The animals don’t really have a voice, so we have to be their voice,” said Fonville, who often collaborates with other local animal charities to facilitate the adoption of about 500 animals each year.
The Sounds of Silent Spirits organization specializes in finding homes for abandoned or injured reptiles and birds, but they also rescue a variety of other animals, according to Fonville.
“Animal abuse is sad and it’s wrong,” said 11-year-old Jesse Perez, whose family has rescued several pets, including some who had suffered prior abuse. With the encouragement of his grandmother, Vicki Luick, Perez and his family often help needy animals by volunteering at the White Rock Horse Rescue.
Representatives from several animal advocate organizations attended the event to raise awareness and support for the prevention of animal cruelty.
Among the charities present was Wee Bar None Ranch of Apple Valley, where they specialize in companion animal placement, and are hoping to find more families who want to adopt pets.
“About 95% of the inbound calls we get are from people needing to place animals,” said Coordinator Patt Claghorn. “It’s just the economy, people losing homes, allergies — a myriad of things.”
Another event attendee was John Breckenridge, Coordinator at Blankies and Towl’s for Animals. He expressed great satisfaction in his retirement by collecting and donating comfort items for animals in local shelters.
“Cuter dogs are more adoptable, and they’re cuter when they’re comfortable,” said Breckenridge, who posts pictures online of shelter animals that need good homes.
Other charities at the event included Forever Wild Exotic Animal Rescue, White Rock Horse Rescue, and Wolf Mountain Sanctuary.
“We appreciate everyone that came to support us, all the groups that participated, and our volunteers. We couldn’t do it without them,” said Fonville. “Also, a big thank you to all the businesses that donated items for our fundraiser.”
Many of the animal advocates admitted that their mission entails a lot of work, but that the rewards are priceless and the cause is worthy.
A clear example of the outcome of these efforts is Valentine, the star of the event, who stretched out in the grass and delighted in all the attention. She had been found early last year with substantial injuries that left a number of physical scars, including the amputation of her right paw.
For more information about the Sounds of Silent Spirits Rescue and Sanctuary, check their website at www.soundsofsilentspirits.org or call 760-248-6427.